Bank of Ireland

Bank of Ireland, building in Dublin, Ireland, the first purpose-built parliament building in the world. The original building was designed by Edward Pearce, the leading exponent of Palladianism in Ireland, along with Richard Cassel. It was constructed between 1729 and 1739 and Pearce was knighted in the building on March 10, 1731. The east and west porticoes were added by French-born architect James Gandon between 1785 and 1797, and the curving screen walls were added by Irish architect Francis Johnston when the building was being converted into a bank in 1803. Like many buildings in Dublin, including the Custom House, the Bank of Ireland is graced by sculptures by Edward Smyth. These are located over the portico to the House of Lords and symbolize Wisdom, Justice, and Liberty.

The parliament in the 18th century was largely controlled by the wealthy ascendancy. On August 2, 1800, it was persuaded to vote itself out of existence through the Act of Union (see Acts of Union: Act of Union of 1800). With this Act the centre of power shifted to London and, as many of the aristocracy moved to England, Dublin slowly began its decline. The parliament building was sold to the Bank of Ireland on the condition that it should not be used for political assemblies.

The parliament consisted of two houses: the Commons and the Lords. The Commons is now the banking hall while the Lords remains intact. Pearce’s interiors still remain, apart from the original Commons, which was destroyed in a fire.